Quick to detect fast flaming fires, the BRK 770RF is a mains powered ionisation smoke alarm with a radio-frequency base plate, designed to achieve wireless interlink with multiple units. Fitted with a sealed lithium back-up battery to power the alarm after a mains failure, the BRK 770RF is ideal for applications where changing batteries and interlink cables would be inconvenient.

Q. What smoke alarm should I use in a bedroom with an en suite bathroom?

A. It is usually recommended to install an optical smoke alarm in a bedroom. This is because optical smoke alarms are slightly quicker at detecting slow smouldering fires than can original from upholstery type materials and over-heated wiring. Also, an optical smoke alarm would be less likely to sound a false alarm than what an ionisation would do if steam/water droplets were present from the bathroom. Detectors should be installed as central to the room as possible; however for your application I would also consider the position of the en suite to make sure that the detector is not in the direct path of the joining door. This is just to try and avoid the chances of a false alarm. No detector is designed for use in bathroom areas.

Q. How do I safely dispose of my old smoke alarms?

A. Safelincs is signed up to Valpak's WEEE (Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment) Distributor Take-Back Scheme (Registration ID: 7370). Private households can therefore drop off their electronic and electrical fire safety waste at their municipal recycling centre when they are purchasing new products from us. To find your nearest recycling centre, please visit www.recycle-more.co.uk.

Q. Can the mains powered smoke alarm range be connected to mains power via the lighting circuit?

A. Yes, hard-wired mains powered alarms can be wired to the unswitched live feed of the nearest frequently used lighting circuit.

Q. How long do the batteries last in smoke alarms?

A. The 9V alkaline batteries last 12~18 months. Lithium batteries will usually last 5x longer than their alkaline counterparts, achieving around 5 years lifetime. Some lithium cells are also rechargeable, and when used in a mains-powered alarm may last for the entire functional lifespan of the alarm. Newer alarm models may also feature a "sealed" lithium battery. These batteries are specialist components which are designed to not be removed or need replacing by the user, and have been tested by the alarm manufacturer to ensure they last for the lifetime of the alarm.

Please Note: the actual lifetime of your batteries depends on how often the alarms are tested or activated, as sounding the alarm draws more power than when the alarms are "waiting" to detect fire. You should also read your alarm's manual to make sure you only use the recommended types and brands of batteries, as failing to follow these instructions may cause the alarm to malfunction, not alerting you in the event of a fire, and might also invalidate the warranty.